Break the 9-5! Explore Alternative Workweek Schedule in 2024

What is an Alternative Work Schedule?

According to SCLG, in California, an alternative work schedule (AWS) offers a unique approach to organizing the workweek differently from the traditional eight-hour day [1]. Employing an AWS means employees will experience longer workdays but fewer days per week.

This modification in daily hours impacts the calculation of daily overtime but does not change the total weekly hours or overall wages. Under California labor laws, as stipulated by the Industrial Welfare Commission, AWS allows employees to work up to 10 hours per day without requiring overtime payment for the extended hours.

Importantly, AWS does not permit working more than 40 hours per week, ensuring flexibility for both employers and employees. Workplaces may implement varying schedules for different groups, with an AWS applying specifically to the group that opts for it through a formal approval process.

Alternative work schedules are allowed under California’s state employment law. Outside of the state of California, these laws have no effect, though some states may have their own laws allowing for an AWS – Stated SCLG.

What’s the Difference Between a Flexible Work Schedule and an Alternative Work Schedule?

According to FlexJobs, flexible schedules empower employees to largely dictate their own working hours, offering the freedom to select their work times based on personal preference and necessity. In some cases, these schedules are entirely unrestricted, allowing employees to work at their convenience [2].

However, flexible schedules can also come with certain conditions that require employer approval, though the employee retains significant control over their hours.

For example, an employer might specify that a part-time employee needs to complete their hours across three days each week, working in four-hour blocks anytime between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. While the employer sets some boundaries regarding the timeframe, the employee has the flexibility to choose which specific days and hours to work within those parameters.

Flexible schedules provide the ultimate in career flexibility and are one of the most popular and favored schedule types for all kinds of job seekers. In fact, 72% of job seekers say flexible work options are the most important thing they consider when evaluating a job!

Alternative Work Schedule Definitions

• Flexible Schedule – Encompasses various types of work arrangements, all featuring core hours and flexible time bands.
• Core Hours – Central to flexible work schedules and denotes the specific hours within a workday when an employee is required to be at work, on approved leave, or utilizing credit hours.
• Flexible Time Bands – designated periods around the core hours during a workday, workweek, or pay period within an employee’s duty schedule. During these bands, employees have the option to adjust their arrival and departure times or to work credit hours.
• Credit Hours – Applicable solely in flexible work schedules, credit hours represent additional hours worked at an employee’s discretion (with supervisory approval) within flexible time bands. These are non-overtime hours that an employee opts to work on one day to earn equivalent time off on another.
• Basic Work Requirement – Set the number of non-overtime hours that an employee is obligated to work or justify through leave in order to qualify for overtime.

Compressed Work Schedule – A fixed work schedule (no flexible time bands) in which an employee can complete the biweekly work requirement in less than 10 working days.

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FAQs:

What Is the Meaning of Alternate Working Days?

The meaning of alternate working days is a schedule where employees work every other day, giving them a day off between each workday. This helps balance work and rest, reducing fatigue.

An alternative day, or day in lieu, is accrued when an employee works on a public holiday they would normally have off. Depending on the agreement, it can sometimes be earned from other types of work.

How Is an Alternative Workweek Schedule Implemented in California?

An alternative workweek schedule implemented in California must be approved by a two-thirds vote of the affected employees in a work unit. Employers are also required to file the election results with the state’s Division of Labor Standards Enforcement (DLSE).

What Are the Benefits of an Alternative Workweek Schedule for Employees?

ُThe benefits of an alternative workweek schedule for employees include increased flexibility, longer weekends, reduced commuting time, and the potential for better work-life balance. Employees can have more consecutive days off to manage personal commitments or rest.

What Are the Potential Drawbacks of an Alternative Workweek Schedule for Employees?

The potential drawbacks of an alternative workweek schedule for employees can include longer daily work hours leading to fatigue, challenges in arranging childcare, and the potential for reduced overtime pay. Extended workdays can also be physically and mentally taxing.

Are All Employees Eligible for an Alternative Workweek Schedule?

Not all employees are eligible for an alternative workweek schedule. Alternative workweek schedules are more common in industries where longer workdays are feasible and can be managed without affecting productivity or safety. However, certain jobs and industries may not be suitable for such schedules due to the nature of the work.

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If you or a loved one was involved with these matters, you should contact our law firm immediately for a free case evaluation. You may be entitled to a settlement by filing a suit and we can help.

References:

1. https://www.shouselaw.com/ca/blog/alternative-workweek-schedule/
2. https://www.flexjobs.com/blog/post/flexible-schedule-vs-alternative-schedule-whats-difference/